Co-working spaces are the Wild West of modern work life—a little chaotic, a lot creative, and the perfect breeding ground for innovation.
But… they’re also breeding grounds for noise complaints, awkward Zoom calls, and desk wars. The good news? You can hack your way to a co-working utopia with some smart design tweaks that prioritise privacy, functionality, and straight-up style.
Here are the top design hacks every co-working space needs to keep members productive, happy, and coming back for more.
1. Phone booths: because noise shouldn’t be your co-worker
If you’ve ever had to mute yourself on Zoom because someone’s screaming about synergy nearby, you already know why phone booths are a co-working essential.
These soundproof sanctuaries offer privacy for calls, virtual meetings, or just moments of quiet in an otherwise buzzing space.
The trick is to pick booths that do more than just muffle noise. Think ventilation, soundproofing, and enough room to avoid feeling like you’re trapped in a vertical coffin.
Persy Booths are a go-to for co-working spaces because they nail the balance between functionality and aesthetics. Mobile and customisable, they’re the perfect fit for spaces that need to evolve with their members.
💡 Tip: Aim for one booth per 10 members and place them near high-traffic areas—but not too close to the coffee machine.
2. Zoning: carve out spaces for every work mood
Open plans are great for collaboration… and a nightmare for concentration. That’s where zoning comes in: dividing your space into distinct areas for focus, collaboration, and downtime. Use everything from modular dividers to greenery walls to create natural and intentional zones.
Zoning isn’t just for keeping up Instagrammable appearances. It’s every designer’s go-to for boosting people’s focus, flow, and sense of purpose in shared spaces. Quiet zones encourage deep work, while open areas inspire creativity and connection. Plus, your introverts will finally have a safe haven.
💡 Tip: Observe how members naturally move through the space and align zones with their behaviours. No one wants to brainstorm next to a meditation pod.
3. Ergonomic furniture: keep your members’ backs happy
Bad chairs are the quickest way to make your co-working space a no-go. Investing in ergonomic furniture not only boosts comfort but also shows your members you care about their health and productivity. Think adjustable desks, supportive chairs, and standing desk options.
NeueHouse Co-working (Source)
Beyond comfort, good furniture is a retention tool. Happy members stick around, and word of mouth spreads. Don’t cheap out—furniture that looks sleek and feels good is worth the investment.
💡 Tip: Mix it up with a variety of seating styles—lounge chairs for casual work, high stools for quick tasks, and ergonomic chairs for marathon sessions.
4. Natural light: let the sun shine In
Nothing kills creativity faster than fluorescent lighting. Natural light not only boosts mood and focus but also makes your space look more inviting. Large windows, skylights, and glass partitions can flood your co-working area with sunlight, creating a vibrant, energising atmosphere.
Fora, The Shard (Source)
If natural light is limited, fake it till you make it. Use full-spectrum bulbs that mimic daylight and position workspaces near windows whenever possible.
💡 Tip: Avoid placing screens directly in front of windows to reduce glare. Angle desks to make the most of the light without sacrificing usability.
For the space itself, lean into your vibe. Whether it’s industrial chic or plant-filled zen, make your aesthetic memorable. A unique look isn’t just Instagram-worthy—lit’s a reason members choose your space over the competition.
💡 Tip: Rotate art or decor seasonally to keep things fresh and show members you’re always thinking of ways to enhance their experience.
6. Acoustics: silence is golden
Phone booths help, but acoustics should be a whole-space strategy.
Rugs, acoustic panels, and even strategically placed bookshelves can absorb sound and reduce the chaos of an open floor plan. The goal? A space that’s lively, not loud.
Experiment with soft materials that blend into your design. Felt wall panels, upholstered furniture, and corkboards are subtle ways to dampen sound while keeping things stylish.
💡 Tip: Walk through your space during peak hours and note where noise builds up. Target these areas with acoustic fixes.
7. Flexibility: keep your space as dynamic as your members
Phone booths help, but acoustics should be a whole-space strategy.
Co-working spaces are never static. Members come and go, needs evolve, and layouts have to keep up. Opt for modular furniture, mobile phone booths, and stackable chairs that make reconfiguring a breeze.
Flexibility isn’t just about furniture, it’s a mindset! Be open to member feedback and don’t be afraid to experiment with layouts. The best co-working spaces are the ones that grow with their community.
💡 Tip: Host regular member meetups to gather ideas and stay ahead of evolving needs. Your members are your best resource for keeping your space fresh and functional.
The Bottom Line
Great co-working spaces aren’t just places to work—they’re places people want to be.
From noise-reducing phone booths to ergonomic furniture and zoning hacks, these design ideas create an environment where productivity and creativity thrive.
So, whether you’re running a single loft or a multi-floor hub, these hacks will help you level up your coworking game and keep members coming back for more.
